biotechnology student handbook...school of texas tech university. these programs are designed to...
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Texas Tech University
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN
BIOTECHNOLOGY
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN BIOTECHNOLOGY with RESEARCH
CONCENTRATIONS
GRADUATE CERTIFICATES in BIOTECHNOLOGY
GRADUATE MINOR IN BIOTECHNOLOGY
Student Handbook
2020/2021
1
FROM THE GRADUATE ADVISOR Dear Students:
Welcome to the Center for Biotechnology and Genomics!
I am glad you decided to join the graduate program in
Biotechnology at Texas Tech University. I am excited to have
you here!
Our program draws in students from diverse educational backgrounds,
cultures and ethnic groups, thus creating a unique environment for learning
biotechnology. Over the next year(s), our goal is to provide you with the
most up-to-date knowledge and training in biotechnology.
We have made many changes in our curriculum so that you can obtain
advanced training in this field and make yourself competitive either in the
job market or in the attainment of an advanced degree. Many of our
graduates are currently employed in well-known industries and academic
institutions or are furthering their studies in a doctoral program, medical
and dental school. My fellow faculty, the Center’s staff and I are here to
provide guidance and support to see that your dreams do come true.
I am glad to present to you the 2020/21 program guidelines. It contains
important information that you need to know as a biotechnology graduate
student. I hope you follow these guidelines and be prepared accordingly.
Thank you for your decision to join the Master's program in the Center for
Biotechnology and Genomics. I wish each one of you a great start of the
semester, continuous progress and good luck in your endeavor.
Jatindra Nath Tripathy, Ph. D; M.B.A.
August 21, 2020
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Contacts 3
Mission Statement 4
Program Overview 5
Biotechnology Curriculum Sketch 7
Curriculum without Research 8
Curriculum in Research Concentrations 9
Curriculum in Graduate Certificate and Minor 10
Important Program Activities 11
Important Program Information 13
Programs in Detail 15
M.S. Checklist(Capstone Project) 22
M.S. Checklist(Internship) 23
M.S. Checklist(Thesis) 24
University Policy 26
Resources 36
Advising Worksheet (30 credits) 37
Advising Worksheet (38 credits) 38
We would like to acknowledge The Department of Biological Sciences at Texas Tech University for
allowing portions of their graduate student handbook to be used as a model for some of the sections
contained in the Biotechnology student handbook.
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CONTACTS
DIRECTOR:
Dr. Yehia S. Mechref
Paul W. Horn Professor
Office: Chemistry 328-D
Phone: 806 834-8246
Fax: 806 742-1892
Biotechnology Master’s Program Coordinator and Graduate Advisor:
Dr. Jatindra N. Tripathy
Office: ESB 103
Phone: (806) 834-1837
Business Manager:
Shannon Sears
Office: ESB 101
(806) 834-6408 [email protected]
Faculty and Staff:
Dr. Chiquito Crasto Dr. Ruwanthi Wettasinghe
[email protected] [email protected]
(806) 834-5448 (806) 834-0973
Dr. Masoud Zabet-Moghaddam Dr. Xiaoxia Gong
[email protected] [email protected]
(806) 834-8497
Dr. Mohamed Fokar Parvin Mirzaei
[email protected] [email protected]
(806) 834 0592 (806) 834 4453
Dr. Xiaomei Shu
(806) 834 8760
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MISSION STATEMENT
Biotechnology research is a major focus at Texas Tech University. The Center for
Biotechnology and Genomics capitalizes on this strength by facilitating research
partnerships between highly productive research teams that extend across departmental
boundaries. These partnerships are established to bring together complementary research
efforts in biochemistry, molecular biology and genetics, genomics, proteomics and
bioinformatics.
The Center for Biotechnology and Genomics is an integrated component of the
international biotechnology and genome research community. We have forged strong
cooperative ties with academic institutions, federal laboratories, and biotechnology
industries.
The Center provides:
Core Facilities that offer instrumentation, support and training in various
aspects of modern biotechnology: genomics, proteomics, bioinformatics.
Multidisciplinary graduate studies in Biotechnology with research
concentrations in Life Sciences Research and Bioinformatics Research, leading
to a Master of Science in Biotechnology, which is designed to prepare students
for technical positions in the rapidly growing biotechnology industry.
Multidisciplinary graduate studies in Biotechnology without research
concentrations, leading to a Master of Science in Biotechnology, which is
designed for students whose primary career interest is to pursue professional
degree programs such as medical school, dental school, veterinary school,
business school, law school and career outside of bench-research in the biotech
sector.
A joint MS/JD degree, a program in conjunction with the Texas Tech Law
School
Graduate Certificate in Biotechnology, which is designed primarily to meet the
needs of participants who needs short term, specialized training to join the
biotech workforce or enhance their career prospects.
Graduate Minor in Biotechnology, which is designed for students of other
majors, who wish to advance their knowledge and expertise in specific areas in
biotechnology.
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MASTER OF SCIENCE IN BIOTECHNOLOGY: Program Overview
Two Master of Science program: a one-year (without research concentration), and a
two-year (with research concentration) program, are administered by the Center for
Biotechnology and Genomics as part of the Interdisciplinary Programs of the Graduate
School of Texas Tech University. These programs are designed to prepare students for
careers in biotechnology with advanced specializations in the Life Sciences and
Bioinformatics. Students may pursue a 30 credit non-research degree that may be
completed in one year, or a 38 credit research-based degree that may be completed in two
years.
The 30 credit, non-research degree program provides opportunity for preparation for
students who wish to go on to the veterinary school, medical or dental schools, or other
biosciences or STEM related professional schools, and wish to pursue a career in the
biotech sector but outside of bench-research. It involves neither a research-based thesis
nor a research internship, but instead involves additional, advanced course work, chosen
in an academic area of concentration like communication studies, nutrition science,
informatics/computer science, engineering, microbiology, biochemistry, medical science
or business. For example, for students interested in eventually moving into management
positions in the Biotechnology industry, a variety of business courses in management and
related areas are available. Planning the class schedule for this option should be
carefully discussed with the Graduate Advisor as early as possible to ensure as
many classes will be available for registration as possible. Class grades and an in-
depth written paper on an appropriate topic in a capstone course will determine success in
this track. As is the case for all non-thesis M.S. degrees at Texas Tech, along with a
comprehensive final oral presentation of this scholarly research, an examination is
required. Students must register for capstone credit (3 hours) in the capstone course
BTEC 5335: Capstone in Biotechnology in their graduating semester.
The 38 credit, research-based degree program is offered with two research
concentrations: the concentrations in Life Sciences Research and the concentration in
Bioinformatics Research. Both these research concentrations consist of a 21-month
curriculum. Students take courses for a minimum of 20 credits in the first year, and a
total of 18-24 credit hours during the summer sessions and the second year. The program
is designed to train students in the most important techniques currently used in the
biotechnology sector. In addition, the program provides excellent preparation for students
wishing to go on and pursue a Ph.D. degree or MD (Ph.D.) degree after graduation.
Students devote their first year to course work. This comprises a combination of required
core courses (lectures and laboratory) and selections from a broad spectrum of
electives—some offered at the center. Students might alternatively, choose advanced
courses in other departments and centers at Texas Tech University or the Texas Tech
University Health Sciences Center. Additionally, the center might also afford the
students the ability to take online or face-to-face courses outside the TTU educational
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system, under close supervision from a CBG faculty. The second year of the program
involves practical training in a research environment. There are two options for
students pursuing research concentrations in the second year of the program: thesis
and internship. These are highly competitive options with many factors determining
availability of and eligibility for these positions. Both these options involve intense
(hands-on) practical training, with students choosing between an academic or industry
internship or working toward an M.S. thesis.
Option 1 involves a one-year thesis-based research experience in a laboratory at Texas
Tech (or, in some cases, at the Texas Tech Health Sciences Center, TTUHSC), under the
supervision of a faculty member with scientific expertise in a field of particular interest to
the student. This option may take longer than one year to complete, as it depends on the
completion of a research project, an oral defense of the research to a committee of 3
faculty members and submission of a written thesis. Students must register for thesis
credit (6 hours) in their graduating semesters.
Option 2, which does not involve a written thesis, is a one-year internship. Internships
are available in private-sector biotechnology companies, in non-profit research
foundation laboratories, in state and federal government research labs, or in selected
university labs. Our faculty assist students in finding internships that are interesting and
challenging. Students can apply for, and choose any company in the U.S. Students must
register for internship credit (6 hours) in their graduating semesters and successful
completion is evaluated by a written descriptive report and a comprehensive oral
examination (including all coursework and experience gained during the internship)
by a committee of at least 3 faculty members.
Additionally, a Certificate in Biotechnology is available to cater the needs of people who
wants basic training and short-term education to pursue a career in biotechnology. A
certificate in biotechnology can be obtained by completing 12 credits (three core courses,
BTEC 5301: Introduction to Biotechnology – 3 credits, BTEC 5338: Methods in
Biotechnology – 3 credits and BTEC 5322: Bioinformatics Application – 3 credits and an
elective of choice (3 credits).
In addition, a graduate minor in biotechnology (9 credits required) is available for
students of other majors. Students can obtained a minor by taking any three courses
offered from the Center.
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Master of Science in Biotechnology Curriculum Sketch:
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Curriculum: Master of Science in Biotechnology without Research Concentration –
30 credit hours
First semester (fall), Core Courses – 15 credits
BTEC 5301: Introduction to Biotechnology – 3 credits
BTEC 5338: Methods in Biotechnology – 3 credits
*BTEC 5322: Bioinformatics Application – 3 credits
BTEC 5100: Scientific Communication – 1 credit
BTEC 6101: Biotechnology Seminar – 1 credit
CHEM 5104: Topic in Chemistry: Lab Safety & Responsible Conduct Research -1 credit
Elective 1 – 3 hours
*Elective 2 – 3 hours (in place of BTEC 5322, the online version of which can be
taken in the spring)
Second semester (spring) – 15 credits (3 credits Capstone and 9 or 12 credits
electives)
BTEC 5335: Capstone in Biotechnology – 3 credits (must register in the graduating
semester) *BTEC 5322: Bioinformatics Application (online course, if you have not taken in the last
fall)
Any courses from the list below or from the other departments with the approval from the
Graduate Advisor.
BTEC 5333: Advanced Bioinformatics – 3 hours
BTEC 5311: Protein Engineering – 3 hours
BTEC 5312: Gene Expression Analysis – 3 hours
BTEC 5313: Experimental Mass Spectrometry in Biotechnology – 3 hours
Note: 18 hours of BTEC credit required to graduate
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Curriculum: Master of Science in Biotechnology with Research Concentrations – 38
credit hours I. Concentration in Life Sciences Research
II. Concentration in Bioinformatics Research
FIRST-YEAR COURSE-WORK – 20 hours
First semester (fall), Core Courses – 11 credits
BTEC 5301: Introduction to Biotechnology – 3 credits
BTEC 5338: Methods in Biotechnology – 3 credits
BTEC 5322: Bioinformatics Application – 3 credits
BTEC 5100: Scientific Communication – 1 credit
CHEM 5104: Topic in Chemistry: Lab Safety & Responsible Conduct Research -1 credit
Second semester (spring), Electives - 9 credits
Concentration in Life Sciences Research
Any courses from the below elective list or from the other departments with the graduate
advisor’s approval.
BTEC 5333: Advanced Bioinformatics – 3 hours
BTEC 5311: Protein Engineering – 3 hours
BTEC 5312: Gene Expression Analysis – 3 hours
BTEC 5313: Experimental Mass Spectrometry in Biotechnology – 3 hours
Second semester (spring), Electives - 9 credits
Concentration in Bioinformatics Research Must register courses listed below.
NS 5342: Biostatistics in Nutrition – 3 hours
BTEC 5333: Advanced Bioinformatics – 3 hours
BTEC 5312: Gene Expression Analysis OR BTEC 5313: Experimental Mass
Spectrometry in Biotechnology OR BTEC 5311: Protein Engineering– 3 hours
SECOND-YEAR RESEARCH – 18 hours
Third semester (fall) – 9 hours
BTEC 7000: Research in Biotechnology – 9 hours
Fourth semester (spring) – 9 hours
BTEC 7000: Research in Biotechnology – 3hours
BTEC 6001: Biotechnology Internship OR BTEC 6000 Master’s Thesis – 6 hours
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Curriculum: Graduate Certificate in Biotechnology – 12 credits
Required Courses – 9 credits
BTEC 5301: Introduction to Biotechnology – 3 credits
BTEC 5338: Methods in Biotechnology – 3 credits
BTEC 5322: Bioinformatics Application – 3 credits
One elective – 3 credits
Curriculum: Graduate Minor in Biotechnology – 9 hours
Any 3 three courses offered from the Center.
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IMPORTANT PROGRAM ACTIVITIES
I. First-Year Activities
A. Biotechnology Graduate Student Orientation
The week before classes begin in the fall semester, the Director of the Center, the
Graduate advisor, faculty, staff, and current graduate students will meet with the
incoming graduate students for a one-day orientation session. The orientation is
organized to acquaint students with the policies and procedures of the program and the
university and to meet people from, the Career Center, the Environmental Health and
Safety group, as well as former students. Attendance at this orientation is mandatory.
B. Diagnostic Tests
All students, both one-year and two-year program, are required to take the diagnostic test
before the first day of the class (benchmark assessments). After that, two diagnostic tests
will be administered, at the end of the first semester (fall) and during second semester
(spring). The date and time will be communicated to the students in advance. Students
must score 80% to pass the diagnostic test at the end of the first semester (fall semester).
If unsuccessful, the student must retake the diagnostic test during the second semester
(spring semester). Maximum of two attempts to pass the diagnostic tests are allowed. If
students are unsuccessful after second attempt, they will not be eligible to continue in the
program. Students may be asked to leave the program.
C. Capstone Project, Presentation, Report and Final Oral Comprehensive
Examination
Students in one-year program will give the final oral presentation of their capstone
project to an open audience of peers and committee members. They will also take an oral
comprehensive examination and produce a written report of the project. Students will be
assessed for demonstration of their knowledge and skills for identifying problem(s) from
real-world setting and developing means and processes to address it. Students must score
80% or above in each above category in order to pass the examination.
II. Second-Year Activities (Research concentrations only)
A. Research Symposium
Students pursuing research concentrations will present their progress of work done in
their internship or thesis projects at the research appraisal seminar at the end of the third
semester (around mid-December). Students are required to submit a comprehensive
review of literature, goals, objectives, hypothesis, any results and future work to be done,
to the graduate advisor three weeks before the presentation. Faculty members will assess
students’ successful progress and application of knowledge and skills in their research
projects. Feedback will be provided to both the students and mentor about the students’
performance. A score of 80% or above is considered a good performance by the student.
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B. Graduate School Poster Competition
All graduate students are encouraged to participate in the Graduate School Annual Poster
Competition in April. The information about the competition will be provided well in
advance to students by the Graduate School and the graduate advisor.
C. Final oral Comprehensive Examination, Presentation, written Report and Thesis
Students will give the final oral presentation of their research project leading to thesis
or internship to an open audience of peers and committee members. They will also take
an oral comprehensive examination (internship option only) and produce a written report
(a thesis in the case of a thesis option). Students doing a thesis need to write a thesis
according to the graduate school guidelines. Students will be assessed for the quality of
their presentation of experimental or informatics-related results, written report and
demonstration of successful integration of transferrable skills and knowledge. Students
must score 80% or above in order to pass the comprehensive examination.
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IMPORTANT PROGRAM INFORMATION
I. Academic Standing in the Program
A student who is on schedule for completion of the degree program (see the
accompanying checklist) and who maintains a GPA of at least 3.0 is considered in good
academic standing. No course in which a grade of “D” or “F” is received can be used
for credit towards the degree.
At the end of the 1st semester (usually in December-January) and again after the 1st year
(usually in May), all graduate students are required to meet with the Graduate
advisor to discuss various aspects of their progress toward the completion of their
degrees. The advisor will use these meetings to assess the progress and academic
standing of each graduate student. Students who are not making adequate progress or
who fall from good academic standing will be referred to the Director of the Center for
review and possible loss of teaching and research assistantship opportunities or dismissal
from the graduate program.
II. Deadlines and Time Limit Although every effort will be made by the Graduate Advisor to make the student aware
of various University and Department regulations and deadlines, it is ultimately the
student’s responsibility to see that these regulations are adhered to and that the deadlines
are met (see the checklists on pg.22-25). All work applied towards a Master’s degree
must be completed in a timely manner.
III. Degree Works (https://degreeworks.texastech.edu/dashboard)
Degree Works is the online repository of degree related course works, which can be
accessed in the above address. Students are encouraged to use this site as a tool to
monitor the progress of their degree program from the beginning until the graduation.
IV. Graduation: Additional Requirements
During the semester of intended graduation, a “Statement of Intention to Graduate” must
be filed at the Graduate School, and payment of all required fees must be posted to the
student’s University bill. Since exact dates for these requirements vary with the semester,
the current “Graduation Deadlines” posted on the Graduate School website should be
consulted.
V. Maximum Allowable Graduate Hours
Graduate students who are not making timely progress toward completion of their degree
and whose cumulative GPA is below 3.0 are subject to probation for the following
semester and suspension afterwards by the Dean of the Graduate School. Students
beyond the maximum allowable graduate hours may be required to pay out-of-state
tuition, regardless of residence status. The maximum time allowed for completing a
Master’s degree is six years.
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VI. Enrollment
Timely graduation require students to register for appropriate courses and correct credit
hours in every semester. Full-time graduate students must enroll minimum 9 credits in
the fall and spring and 3 credits in each summer session to be eligible for fellowships,
assistantships (TA, RA, GPTI) and scholarships. Students receiving financial assistance
must register for the number of hours required by Financial Aid.
VII. Competitive Scholarship
To maintain the eligibility of competitive scholarship, graduate students must pass the
diagnostic test, maintain an overall GPA of 3.0 and a final grade of B or higher in all
required and elective courses during the first year of the program. Scholarships from
external sources have their own policy requirements. It is the responsibility of the student
to be aware of, and comply with, these policies. Any deviation from these rules is at the
discretion of the Graduate Advisor.
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PROGRAMS in DETAIL
I. Master of Science in Biotechnology without Research Concentration
A. Fall (1st semester)
In order to graduate in a year, students should register for the following courses (15 credit
hours) in the first semester. Failure to take courses might result the delay of graduation as
some of these courses are only offered in the fall semester. BTEC 5301: Introduction to
Biotechnology, BTEC 5338: Methods in Biotechnology, BTEC 5322: Bioinformatics
Application, BTEC 5100: Scientific Communication, BTEC 6101 Biotechnology
Seminar, CHEM 5104 Lab Safety and Responsible Conduct of Research, and a 3-
hours elective course are required courses for the first fall semester of enrollment in the
non-research based graduate program.
Students might take a second elective in the place of BTEC 5322: Bioinformatics
Application, which can be taken in the spring.
B. Spring (2nd semester)
Students need to enroll 15 hours (12 hours electives), including 3-hours capstone course,
BTEC 5335: Capstone in Biotechnology. Students must register in the Capstone course
in the graduating semester. Students can choose from following list of courses offered in
the Center. BTEC 5312: Gene Expression Analysis, BTEC 5313: Experimental Mass
Spectrometry in Biotechnology, BTEC 5311: Protein Engineering and BTEC 5333:
Advanced Bioinformatics. Additionally, Students can also choose courses offered in
other colleges at TTU and TTUHSC with the permission from the Graduate Advisor,
such as courses from media and communication, nutrition sciences, animal sciences,
computer sciences, biology, chemistry, plant and soil sciences, courses offered at medical
school and business school as electives.
Capstone Course: Students pursuing M.S. degree without research concentration
MUST register in BTEC 5335: Capstone in Biotechnology in their graduating
semester. The course serves as the degree capstone course and is mandatory for
the graduate students pursuing one-year M.S. program in Biotechnology. The
course prepares students to integrate the skills and knowledge learned from their
coursework to help synthesize new concepts and innovate new ideas, products and
processes to meet the demand of global challenges.
At the end of the first year (Fall and Spring semesters), students must complete 30 credit
hours of academic course work, out of which 18 credit must be BTEC courses, with a
cumulative GPA of 3.0 or greater, and must pass the diagnostic test in order to graduate
in one year. In addition, students must give a final comprehensive oral examination, must
submit a written report and must give an oral presentation of his/her capstone project.
The format of the final presentation and oral examination is similar to
the students pursuing internship options.
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II. Master of Science in Biotechnology with Research Concentrations
A. First Year - Fall (1st semester) BTEC 5338: Methods in Biotechnology, BTEC 5301: Introduction to Biotechnology,
BTEC 5322: Bioinformatics Application, BTEC 5100: Scientific Communication
and CHEM 5104: Lab Safety and Responsible Conduct of Research are required
courses for the first fall semester of enrollment in the graduate program. Failure to take a
course at the appropriate time might result in delay in graduation, the loss of
opportunities for internships and assistantships, and dismissal of the student from the
program. Exceptions to this schedule must be discussed and approved by the Graduate
Advisor in advance. In addition to these courses, students may take one elective with the
prior permission from the Graduate Advisor. Students must register for a minimum of 11
credit hours of required courses in the fall semester.
Leveling courses. Incoming graduate students with educational gaps in their background
may be required to take certain courses in order to fill these gaps. However, these courses
cannot be used to satisfy degree requirements.
B. First Year - Spring (2nd semester) Fulltime graduate students must register for a minimum of 9 credit hours in the spring
semester. (Taking an elective in the fall semester over the required 11 hours course load
is optional, but the total formal course workload must total a minimum of 20 credits.)
Exceptions to this schedule must be discussed and approved by the Graduate Advisor in
advance.
Students can choose 3 electives (9 hours) from following list of courses offered in the
Center. BTEC 5312: Gene Expression Analysis, BTEC 5313: Experimental Mass
Spectrometry in Biotechnology, BTEC 5311: Protein Engineering and BTEC 5333:
Advanced Bioinformatics. Students can also choose courses offered in other colleges at
TTU and TTUHSC with the permission from the Graduate Advisor.
Students pursuing the bioinformatics track must enroll in BTEC 5333: Advanced
Bioinformatics and NS 5342: Biostatistics in Nutrition. In addition to that, students
may choose one of the following courses to meet the requirement of third electives:
BTEC 5312: Gene Expression Analysis, BTEC 5313: Experimental Mass
Spectrometry in Biotechnology, and BTEC 5311: Protein Engineering. Students can
also choose courses offered in other colleges at TTU and TTUHSC with the permission
from the Graduate Advisor.
At the end of the first year (Fall and Spring semesters), students must complete a
minimum of 20 credit hours of academic course work and must have a cumulative GPA
of 3.0 or greater and must pass the diagnostic tests in order to be considered for the
second year research program. Any exceptions, if the circumstances warrant, are at the
discretion of the Graduate Advisor and requires specific approval.
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Adequate academic preparation is absolutely required for an intensive second year
research experience and all internships (internal or industrial) and thesis projects
must be approved by the Graduate Advisor.
Summer I and Summer II is an optional period for students to do any course work or
start second year research early. Registration in summer is only required in certain
circumstances. Consult with the Graduate Advisor if you want to know any information
about summer registration.
C. Second Year - Third (Fall) and Fourth (Spring) Semesters
The program offers students the opportunity to carry out two-semesters of research
activity in the second year. Students have a choice between doing a non-thesis
internship project or a thesis-based research project.
Non-Thesis Master’s Program (Internship Option): The non-thesis Master’s
degree program in Biotechnology is designed to make a substantial contribution
to the intellectual and technical development of the student. The internship option
is designed for students whose career plans are best served by research experience
in either industry or academic lab and which do not require a written thesis as part
of the training experience. To earn the non-thesis Master’s degree, the student
must complete at least 38 hours of course credit beyond the Bachelor’s degree.
An internship may be pursued after successfully completing 20 credit hours of
course work in the first year followed by 18 hours of combined research and
internship credits. Students doing an internship in a lab at Texas Tech System
should register 9 hours in BTEC 7000: Research in Biotechnology in the fall,
3 hours in BTEC 7000: Research in Biotechnology and 6 hours in BTEC
6001: Biotechnology Internship in the spring semester. Students doing
internships outside the academic campus should register 9 hours in BTEC
6001: Biotechnology Internship in both the fall and spring semester. Any
deviation from the above needs the prior approval from the Graduate
Advisor.
Evaluation of Internship Project: Students’ project will be evaluated by the
committee of three members, typically a combination of the Graduate Advisor
(chair of the committee), and two faculty members from the CBG or the mentor
from the lab where the internship is being done. Student’s internship experience
will be evaluated by a written report, oral presentation and a comprehensive final
exam.
o Written Report: In consultation with his or her mentor, student will write
a summary of the internship experience. Generally, a document of 20
pages in length is sufficient. Details and information on the format may be
obtained from the Graduate Advisor. Students must submit the written
portion of the exam (internship report) to all members of the Examination
Committee at least two weeks before the scheduled date for the oral
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presentation. The report should be approved by his/her mentor before it is
submitted to the Graduate Advisor. A bound copy of the report is due after
any corrections suggested by the committee.
o Oral Presentation: Student will then make an oral presentation of
research project, which is open to the public, describing his/her experience
and presenting his/her work to the Advisory Committee and all in
attendance. The final oral comprehensive examination (see below)
typically follows immediately after presentation.
o Final Comprehensive Oral Examination: Each non-thesis Master’s
student must pass a final oral comprehensive examination before earning a
Master’s degree. This exam is based both on the student’s course work
and on research project leading to internship. Students should be aware
that the results of the examination must be reported to the Graduate School
approximately four weeks prior to graduation (consult the “Graduation
Deadlines” posted on the Graduate School website for the exact date,
which varies somewhat from one year to another). The date for the
examination will be set after discussion between the student and all
members of the Examination Committee, keeping in mind the Graduate
School deadline. The student’s Examination Committee administers the
final oral examination. The Committee members will use the question-
and-answer format to assess the extent of the student’s knowledge and
understanding of the basic scientific principles he or she has been exposed
to through course work, readings and internship experiences. The student
is expected to deliver responses that are concise and well-reasoned. As
soon as possible after the examination, the head of the Committee will
report the results to the Dean of the Graduate School. Satisfactory
performance by the student is indicated by a majority affirmative vote of
the Committee members. A student who fails the examination may
repeat it (not same semester), but only after an interval determined by
the committee. In the event of failure, the Committee will provide the
student with a summary of the perceived deficiencies and corrective
actions that need to be taken before making the second attempt. Students
should also understand that faculty members might not be available for an
examination during the summer.
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Master’s Program (Thesis Option): The thesis Master’s degree option in
Biotechnology is recommended for most students interested in a career in science
that involves independent research. Participation in thesis research provides
sophistication and insight into the workings of science beyond that available in
formal course work, facilitates the eventual pursuit of doctoral studies, and may
enhance employability through development of research skills. The student must
complete at least 38 hours of course credit beyond the Bachelor’s degree, 18
hours in the second year, 6 hours of which must be thesis research. At least 20
hours are required in academic course work.
Advisory Committee: Typically during the student’s first summer session after
the completion of all required coursework, but no later than the first semester of
the second year of enrollment in the Master’s degree program, the student will
form an Advisory Committee in consultation with his or her Major Advisor. This
Committee is composed of three (occasionally more) Graduate Faculty members,
one of them being the Major Advisor who will serve as the Chairperson of the
Committee. The Advisory Committee will advise the student and assess his or her
progress towards the Master’s degree. The Committee approves the thesis
research proposal and conducts the final oral defense of the thesis.
Occasionally, it may become necessary for a student to change the composition of
his or her Advisory Committee:
1) In the case of a proposed change other than the Major Advisor, the process is
initiated by the Major Advisor. The Graduate Advisor must be informed of the
change. The student must also show courtesy to the Committee member being
replaced by letting him or her know about the plans for change and reasons for the
decision. It may be that a misunderstanding has occurred that can be resolved, so
that a change will not be necessary.
2) A student proposing to change his or her Major Advisor should inform the current
Major Advisor directly or through the Graduate Advisor of the Center. In either
case, the Major Advisor will be given an opportunity to express his or her opinion
and make an attempt to work out problems that may have precipitated the need for
such a change. Some discussion with the Director of the Center may be required
before a final decision is reached.
3) In extreme cases of disagreement, the Major Advisor or Committee member has
the right to file an official grievance, which will be conducted according to
normal grievance policies of Texas Tech University.
Master’s Thesis: The Master’s thesis represents original research conducted by
the student under the direction of his or her Major Advisor and Advisory
Committee. It is to be written clearly and concisely in correct English. The
required format for the thesis is described in the “Thesis/Dissertation Formatting
Guidelines,” which is available as a PDF file on the Graduate School website.
After being approved by the Major Advisor, a complete version of the thesis (not
20
necessarily the final one) will be given to all other members of the Advisory
Committee at least four weeks prior to the anticipated date of the thesis defense.
Within one week, the Committee members will determine whether the thesis is
defensible. “Defensible” means that it is structurally sound, based on the criteria
for articles in a quality journal in the field of study, and that the Committee is able
to assess the validity of the presented research. “Defensible” does not mean that
the Committee members approve of the scientific content of the thesis or will pass
the student in the thesis defense. If the thesis is judged defensible, then the
defense can go forward as scheduled. If one or more Committee members do not
find the thesis to be defensible, or if they perceive any major flaws in the
methodology, analysis or interpretation of data, these problems should be
communicated to the Major Advisor and graduate student within the one-week
period. Any disputes that cannot be resolved will be taken for arbitration first to
the Graduate Advisor and then, if necessary, to the Director of the Center.
Defense of Thesis: Before earning the M.S. degree, each thesis Master’s student
must complete the defense of thesis. After the Advisory Committee has judged
that the thesis is in a defensible form, the graduate student may then formalize and
announce the date for the defense with the approval of all Committee members,
which must be scheduled at least three weeks in advance. Thus, the student
should plan to deliver the Major Advisor-approved version of the thesis to the
other Committee members at least four weeks before he or she intends to defend.
In scheduling the examination and defense, students should have completed and
be ready to turn in to the Graduate School 1). the final, Committee-approved copy
of the thesis; 2). the signed Thesis-Dissertation Approval Form; 3). and the
Electronic Thesis-Dissertation (ETD) Signature Form within two weeks of the
defense or no later than the date in the “Graduation Deadlines” posted on the
Graduate School website. Sufficient time should be allowed before this deadline
to make all necessary revisions to the thesis. Students should also understand that
faculty members may not be available for a thesis defense during the summer.
Student should submit a hardbound copy of the thesis to the center after the thesis
is officially accepted by the university.
The defense is administered by the student’s Advisory Committee. The student is
expected to deliver a concise and well-organized presentation covering the salient
points of the thesis, stressing its contribution(s) to scientific knowledge. This
presentation and the following question-and-answer session is open to all faculty,
graduate students and others who wish to attend. Afterwards, the student will
meet privately with the Advisory Committee for a more in-depth discussion of the
merits and weaknesses of the thesis. As soon as possible after the defense, the
Major Advisor will report the results to the Dean of the Graduate School.
Satisfactory performance by the student is indicated by a majority affirmative
vote of the Committee members. A student who fails the defense may repeat it
21
once, but only after an interval determined by the committee. In the event of
failure, the Major Advisor will provide the student with a summary of the
perceived deficiencies and corrective actions that need to be taken before making
the second attempt.
22
M.S. CHECKLIST- CAPSTONE PROJECT
*Students are responsible for seeing that all deadlines are met.
For the purposes of this program, your Major Advisor is the Graduate Advisor, Dr.
J.N. Tripathy.
Activity Typical Date or Deadline
New Students Orientation Week before class begins in the fall
Diagnostic Test (Benchmark Assessment) Before class begins in the fall
First Semester Coursework: 15 hours
BTEC 5301, BTEC 5338, BTEC 5322, BTEC
5100, BTEC 6101, CHEM 5104, and one
elective (3 hours)
Week before classes begin in the fall
Diagnostic Test 1 After first semester (Dec or Jan)
Second Semester: 15 hours
Meet with Graduate Advisor to discuss
degree plan and to plan courses for second
semester.
After the first semester, usually in
December or January
Diagnostic Test 2 During/after second Semester
(May/June)
Meet with Graduate Advisor to discuss
about Capstone Project.
After the first semester, usually in
December or January
File “Statement of Intention to Graduate”
at the Graduate School and make sure all fees
are paid.
During the semester of graduation
(exact deadline varies)
Capstone project report, final oral
presentation and comprehensive oral
examination
During the semester of graduation
(exact deadline varies) at least three
weeks in advance
Graduation Target: one year
23
M.S. CHECKLIST- INTERNSHIP
*Students are responsible for seeing that all deadlines are met.
For the purposes of this program, your Major Advisor is the Graduate Advisor, Dr.
J. N. Tripathy.
Activity Typical Date or Deadline
New Students Orientation Week before classes begin in the fall
Diagnostic Test (Benchmark Assessment) Before class begins in the fall
First Semester Required Courses: 11 hours
BTEC 5301, BTEC 5338, BTEC 5322, BTEC
5100, CHEM 5104
Week before class begins in the fall
Diagnostic Test 1 After first semester (Dec or Jan)
Second Semester Elective Courses: 9 hours After first semester, usually in December
or January
Diagnostic Test 2 During/After Second Semester (May/June)
Second Year Program: 18 hours
Internship (9 hours in fall and 9 hours in spring)
After successful completion of first year
program, usually in May
Internship Placement Summer/fall
Research Symposium (Second Year) Last week of the fall semester, Dec
Graduate School Poster Competition April, second year
File “Statement of Intention to Graduate” at
the Graduate School and make sure all fees are
paid.
During the semester of graduation (exact
deadline varies)
Internship project report, final oral
presentation and comprehensive oral
examination
During the semester of graduation (exact
deadline varies) at least three weeks in
advance.
Graduation Target: Two years
24
M.S. CHECKLIST- THESIS
Students are responsible for seeing that all deadlines are met.
For the purposes of this program, your initial Major Advisor is the Graduate
Advisor, Dr. Tripathy.
Activity Typical Date or Deadline
New Students Orientation Week before classes begin in the fall
Diagnostic Test (Benchmark Assessment) Before class begins in the fall
semester
First Semester Required Courses: 11 hours BTEC 5301, BTEC 5338, BTEC 5322, BTEC
5100, CHEM 5104
Week before class begins in the fall
Diagnostic Test 1 After first semester (Dec or Jan)
Second Semester Elective Courses: 9 hours After the first semester, usually in
December or January
Diagnostic Test 2 During/after second semester
(May/June)
Second Year Program: 18 hours
Fall Research 9 hours; Spring Research 3
hours, Thesis 6 hours
After successful completion of first
year program, usually in May
Meet with Graduate Advisor to discuss
about thesis requirements
After the successful completion of
first year, usually in May
Set up and meet with Thesis Committee During the fall semester, second year
Research Symposium (second year) Last week of fall semester, Dec
Graduate School Poster Competition April, second year
File “Statement of Intention to Graduate”
at the Graduate School
During the semester of graduation
(exact deadline varies)
Pay Electronic Thesis Dissertation (ETD)
processing fee
During the semester of graduation
(exact deadline varies)
25
Submit a completed version of the thesis to
all Advisory Committee members for
review
At least four weeks before the
anticipated thesis defense
Obtain approval of all Advisory
Committee members to schedule the thesis
defense
During the semester of graduation
(exact deadline varies)
Defense of Thesis (Major Advisor reports the
result to the Graduate School)
During the semester of graduation
(exact deadline varies) and scheduled
at least three weeks in advance
Submit thesis for formatting review; turn in
signed Thesis-Dissertation Approval Form
and ETD Signature Form to the Graduate
School
During the semester of graduation
(exact deadline varies) within two
weeks of the defense
Upload corrected, final version of thesis to
the ETD Submission website
During the semester of graduation
(exact deadline varies)
Graduation Target: Two years
26
UNIVERSITY POLICY
With permission of the Provost’s Office, the statements below were taken directly from
the Texas Tech University Faculty Handbook which can be found online at
http://www.depts.ttu.edu/officialpublications/pdfs/2010-11%20Faculty%20Handbook.pdf
Important Documents
Student affairs handbook
http://www.depts.ttu.edu/dos/handbook/
Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog (University catalog)
http://www.depts.ttu.edu/officialpublications/
TTU Operating procedures.
http://www.depts.ttu.edu/opmanual/
Academic Freedom “Institutions of higher education exist for the common good. The common good depends
upon a free search for truth and its free expression. Hence, the faculty member
must be free to pursue scholarly inquiry without undue restriction and to voice and
publish conclusions concerning the significance of evidence considered relevant. The
faculty member must be free from the corrosive fear that others, inside or outside the
university community, because of their differing view, may threaten the faculty
member’s professional career or the material benefits accruing from it.
Each faculty member is entitled to full freedom in the classroom in discussing the
subject taught. Each faculty member is also a citizen of the nation, state, and community,
and when speaking, writing, or acting as an individual citizen, must be free from
institutional censorship or discipline”.
Academic Integrity The University is strongly committed to upholding standards of academic integrity. Any
student found to have committed academic misconduct is subject to the disciplinary
sanctions, conditions, and/or restrictions outlined in Part IX, Code of Student Conduct,
Section B of the Student Affairs Handbook. This includes (but is not limited to): cheating,
plagiarism, academic dishonesty, intoxication, drug possession, theft, possession of
weapons, physical harm or threat, disruptive behavior, gambling, hazing, harassment,
false alarms, terrorism, financial irresponsibility misuse of computer facilities, providing
false information or abuse of the discipline system. Complete definitions and examples of
academic misconduct are available in the Texas Tech University Faculty Handbook.
Academic Regulations Regulations concerning admission, registration, grading practices, class attendance, the
University calendar, and other similar matters are stated in the current Undergraduate and
Graduate Catalogs. Faculty members are advised to consult the catalogs in order to
become familiar with those regulations. Information concerning admission of graduate
27
students is contained in the current Graduate Catalog. Additional information may be
distributed as needed by memoranda or letters.
Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) “Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, and the Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA) require that universities, and all faculty and staff therein, make
reasonable accommodation for all students with disabilities in all programs and activities,
both academic and nonacademic. If such reasonable accommodation is denied to any
disabled student, the institution may be held in violation of the law. It is advisable that
you ask in each first class session that students with disabilities or health problems
identify themselves to you (privately after class or during your office hours) and indicate
to you any special accommodations you will need to make for them during the semester
(for example, extended time examinations). While disabled students are always told to
notify their professors, some may be reluctant to do so.
Faculty are not obligated to provide accommodation for a student’s disability
needs unless the student provides proof of a disability for which the accommodation
requested is appropriate. While such proof should ideally be provided at the beginning of
the semester, accommodation requests can be submitted at any time during a semester.
The accommodations begin on the date the letter is signed by both the instructor and the
student and are NOT retroactive. The university-approved mechanism for doing so is
written notification from AccessTECH—a Letter of Accommodation (LOA). The LOA
on official university letterhead indicates to professors that the student has given proof of
his or her disability and that the accommodation noted is considered appropriate and
reasonable. No further proof of disability should be required of the student. Students
presenting verification other than the LOA should be referred to AccessTECH in the
office of the Dean of Students for the appropriate identification. No requirement exists
that accommodation be made prior to completion of the approved university process.
Faculty should be aware of the related student grievance process as detailed in the
Student Affairs Handbook. It is our hope that this system will enable faculty and staff to
easily and quickly access those resources necessary to respond effectively to these
students’ needs, particularly those students whose disabilities are not visible or as
familiar as others. AccessTECH is available to advise and assist faculty members in the
accommodation process. They can be reached at 742-2405.
Keep in mind that the purpose of classroom accommodation is to eliminate the
competitive disadvantage caused by the disability itself. Students with disabilities should
be expected to do the same quality of work and the same quantity of work as every other
student. It is the method by which this is accomplished that is sometimes different.
Class Excuses from Student Health Services Student Health Services is a primary care clinic staffed with licensed physicians and
other health care professionals who provide care for minor illnesses, injuries, and mental
health issues. Students generally pay a medical services fee which entitles them to access
clinical and pharmacy services at Student Health Services. A valid Texas Tech ID is
required to access the clinic services. Student Health Services is located in the Student
Wellness Center at the corner of Main and Flint on the west side of the campus. Services
are available by appointment by calling (806) 743-2848. Appointment hours are 8:00
28
a.m.to 5:00 p.m. weekdays. Students are not given excuses for missed classes or exams
due to a clinic visit. Students experiencing a lengthy illness that may affect their
academic performance may consult their Student Health Services physician about
obtaining a letter explaining the situation. In accordance with state and federal law, a
student’s medical information is confidential and cannot be released to anyone, including
parents/guardians, without the student’s written permission, unless otherwise authorized
by law. Contact Student Health Services at (806) 743-2848 or visit their website at
http://www.depts.ttu.edu/studenthealth/
Faculty–Student Conflict of Interest
The university is responsible for ensuring the integrity of the roles of faculty and students
during the period of graduate or undergraduate enrollment and protecting them from
conflict of interest. Faculty must avoid academic supervisory, teaching, or evaluative
relationships with students that pose significant conflicts of interest from the standpoint
of personal or professional connections. Such connections might include husband-wife
or other affectional liaisons, supervisor-employee relationships, or parent-child
relationships. The appearance of conflict of interest should be avoided. OP 32.33 sets
forth details of procedures that are to be followed in this regard.
Sexual Harassment - Faculty ”It is the policy of the university to maintain a work place and a learning environment
free of sexual harassment and intimidation. Harassment of students on the basis of sex is
a violation of Section 106.31 of Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972.
Harassment of Texas Tech University employees on the basis of sex is a violation of
Section 703 of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Texas Commission on
Human Rights Act. Sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or
physical conduct of a sexual nature constitute sexual harassment when:
• Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of
an individual’s employment, participation in a university-sponsored educational program
or activity, or in return for a grade or other consideration;
• Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for an
academic or employment decision affecting such individual; or
• Such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s
academic or work performance or of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive
working or educational environment.
Any faculty member, staff member, or student may pursue a grievance within the
procedures outlined in OP 10.09 without fear of reprisal, stigma, or threats if a complaint
is filed in good faith.”
Complaint Procedures - Students
Sexual harassment complaints must be filed within 180 days after the incident occurs.
(Title VII of Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Title IX of the Educational Amendments of
1972).
Students believing they are the targets of sexual harassment in the academic environment
29
by faculty, staff, or other students should report their complaint to the Dean of Students
Office (DOS).
Students complaining of sexual harassment in their employment capacity should proceed
directly to the Affirmative Action Office as provided in the Faculty and Staff section of
this policy.
When a signed complaint is filed, an investigation will be conducted by either the Dean
of Students Office or the Affirmative Action Office. Investigation of a complaint of sexual
harassment will include, but not be limited to, conferring with the complainant, the
accused and the supervisor of the accused and may also involve examination of relevant
documentation and interviews with other pertinent individuals. The appropriate Vice
President or Provost will be notified of the complaint.
The investigation will be conducted as quickly as possible and the results reported to the
complainant, accused, and the appropriate vice president and Provost.
In the event the complaint is valid, the accused will be subject to disciplinary action, as
determined by the appropriate Vice President or Provost.
Appeals by either party may be directed to the appropriate Vice President or Provost.
Conduct of Graduate Students Serving as Faculty (Teaching Assistants) Graduate students appointed as Teaching Assistants or Research Assistants serve in a
limited role as faculty of Texas Tech University. As faculty employees, OP 33.04,
“Conduct of University Faculty, “and OP 32.33 “Faculty and Student Conflict of
Interest” apply fully. This policy prohibits actions by a faculty employee which are a
breach of the public trust. Penalties for such actions range from an oral reprimand to
separation from the University. The classes of actions prohibited are as follows.
1. Academic dishonesty of any form, including but not limited to academic
plagiarism or giving improper aid to a student on an examination or grade.
Acceptance of money, gifts, or favors from students, or solicitation thereof, which
would compromise integrity, are similarly prohibited.
2. Forgery, alteration, or unauthorized use of University documents or records.
3. Knowingly furnishing false information to the University.
4. Use of force or violence or other methods of obstructing the teaching, research,
administration, or public service functions of the University.
5. Physical abuse, threats, or conduct dangerous to the health and safety of any
person on University property or University-sponsored or supervised functions.
6. Sexual harassment connected in any way to the performance of University duties.
7. Theft or damage to the property of the University or to the property of a member
of or visitor to the University.
8. Unauthorized entry to or use of University facilities.
9. Use, possession, or distribution of narcotics or other substances controlled by
Federal and State law, except in strict compliance with such regulations.
30
10. Lewd, indecent, or obscene conduct on University-owned or controlled property
or at a University-sponsored or supervised function.
11. Failure to comply with the lawful directions of University officials acting in the
performance of their duties.
12. Violation of other promulgated University policies or rules. This prohibition
includes failure to meet regularly scheduled classes or to administer scheduled
examinations.
The foregoing are to be understood as illustrative, but not exhaustive, of the possible
infractions of academic ethics.
Definition of Student Employment A student employee performs part-time work incidental to academic training in an
occupational category that requires all incumbents to be students as a condition of
employment. These include:
A. Graduate Assistant—A graduate student in an institution of higher education
employed to perform work which utilizes knowledge beyond undergraduate academic
studies. The position of Graduate Assistant is intended for graduate students employed in
capacities other than teaching or research.
B. Research Assistant—A graduate student in an institution of higher education
employed in support of the research mission of the unit, its director or faculty, in
laboratory, library, field, or computer, or such other activities as may assist the unit’s
research effort. The position of Research Assistant is intended for graduate students
employed in research activities on research accounts.
C. Teaching Assistant—A graduate student in an institution of higher education
employed in support of the teaching mission of the unit who is responsible for, or in
charge of a class or class section, or a quiz drill or laboratory section. The position of
Teaching Assistant is intended for graduate students employed in teaching activities. The
source of funds is ordinarily an academic account.
Disposition by the Dean of Students or Designee A written report of any disciplinary action taken by the Dean of Students or designee will
be sent to the appropriate academic dean and to the student. The final results of a grade
appeal shall be reported to the instructor by the appropriate academic dean in the manner
required by the grade appeals procedure (Part V of the Student Affairs Handbook).
Grade Appeal Procedure The Grade Appeal Procedure (Part V of the Student Affairs Handbook) may be used to
appeal a failing course grade, but not a failing grade given for a class assignment. The
disciplinary penalty of a grade of F shall not be implemented until the disciplinary
procedures or grade appeal process has been exhausted. A student may continue the
academic class and course work until a final decision is made.
Instructor Responsibilities The instructor in a course is responsible for initiating action in cases where there is an
31
admitted act or convincing evidence of academic misconduct. Before taking such action,
the instructor should attempt to discuss the matter with the student. If the alleged
misconduct involves a final exam, the instructor may withhold the grade until a
reasonable attempt can be made to contact the student after the end of the semester.
Instructor Sanctions If academic misconduct is determined by the instructor, a failing grade shall be assigned
to either the assignment in question or to the course grade. When a student is given a
failing grade in a course as a result of academic misconduct, the instructor shall report in
writing to the instructor’s department chair the facts of the case and the action to be taken
against the student. The chair shall provide a copy to the student, to his or her academic
dean (and the Graduate Dean in the case of graduate students) and to the Dean of
Students.
Plagiarism This violation includes, but is not limited to, the use, by paraphrase or direct quotation, of
the published or unpublished work of another person without full and clear
acknowledgment. It also includes the unacknowledged use of materials prepared by
another person or agency engaged in the selling of term papers or other academic
materials.
Posting Grades Student grades are not to be posted in any public location. However, with exceptionally
large classes, the University recommends that grades be posted as random numbers.
These numbers must be the sole property and knowledge of the individual student for that
particular exam posting. This is the University Administration’s policy based on legal
action taken against instructors, teaching assistants and administrators. If your grades are
posted in a manner that places you and the Department in jeopardy, they will be removed.
When possible, return the student’s quizzes during the laboratory period. DO NOT place
the quizzes outside the lab on the floor or on the wall. DO NOT give a student’s scores
over the telephone unless you are sure that you are talking to the student; the student’s
parents or legal guardians are NOT exceptions.
Referrals to the Dean of Students A student referred to the Dean of Students for alleged violation of academic misconduct
is entitled to all substantive and procedural guarantees provided in the Code of Student
Conduct.
Repeated Academic Dishonesty In cases of repeated violations, either the instructor (through his or her department chair
and/or academic dean) or the academic dean may refer the case to the Dean of Students
for further disciplinary proceeding.
Sexual Harassment The objective of the University is to provide an environment in which faculty, staff, and
32
students may pursue their careers and studies with a maximum of productivity and
enjoyment. Behavior or conduct which interferes with this goal will not be tolerated.
It is the policy of the University to maintain a work place and a learning environment free
of sexual harassment and intimidation.
Harassment of students on the basis of sex is a violation of Section 106.31 of Title IX of
the Education Amendments of 1972.
Harassment of TTU employees on the basis of sex is a violation of Section 703 of Title
VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, § 39.03 Texas Penal Code, as stipulated in House Bill
370 passed in the 71St Legislative Session, and the Texas Commission on Human Rights
Act of 1933.
Sexual harassment is defined as: Sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other
verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature constitute sexual harassment when:
a. Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition
of an individual’s employment, participation in a University sponsored educational
program or activity, or in return for a grade or other consideration;
b. Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for an
academic or employment decision affecting such individual, or
c. Such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s
academic or work performance or of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive
working or educational environment.
Any faculty member, staff member, or student may pursue a grievance as set forth in the
procedures outlined below without fear of reprisal.
Confidentiality of both complainant and accused will be honored to such extent as it does
not compromise the University’s commitment to investigate allegations of sexual
harassment.
Smoking 0P78.16 prohibits smoking in all campus facilities.
Teaching Assistants (Considerations and Advice)
GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR TEACHING ASSISTANTS
The purpose of your teaching assistantship is twofold: to help support you financially
during your study for an advance degree and, of equal importance, to provide an essential
service to the Department and to the University. You have been appointed to a
responsible job which will have an impact upon the learning experience of many college
students. There is so little time for orientation prior to the beginning of the semester, the
following points are provided as a guide to help you get started.
33
1. A good instructor always meets his/her laboratories on time, stays in lab for the
entire period, and is well prepared in advance to cover the material for that
laboratory.
2. You are encouraged to be innovative and to use your own experiences whenever
possible. Remember, a positive approach is most effective, and the course in
which you teach is a team effort with the other TA’s and the lecturer(s) in the
course. It is counterproductive to your effectiveness as a teacher to make
derogatory remarks to the students about any aspects of the course.
3. If it is unavoidable that you be absent from a lab period, be sure to check in with
your coordinator (or leave a message), and make sure someone covers your lab
duties. It is University policy that leaves from “campus” must have proper
approval in advance. If you know you are going to be absent for any other reason,
apply for official leave.
4. Please use good judgment in your personal habits, hygiene, and dress. If your
personal habits are such that they affect the students, someone will discuss the
matter with you. What you wear is certainly up to you, but what you wear to a
teaching laboratory is the Department’s concern, so dress appropriately.
5. Treat all students with courtesy and fairness. To avoid even the appearance of
favoritism, do not fraternize unduly with students assigned to your laboratories. It
is unethical for you to date a student assigned to your laboratory. Such action
would constitute basis for termination of further financial support from the
Department.
6. Make every effort to be available to your students. However, do not give out
personal cell phone numbers. Students can leave a general message in the main
office, ESB Rm. 101.
7. Your duties may include the proctoring of lectures and final exams. Contact the
lecture instructor early in the semester to find out what needs to be done and help
get the materials to the examination room.
8. Please do your part to protect supplies and equipment from theft and to prevent
damage to the building. It is difficult, and sometimes impossible, to replace items
that “disappear”.
9. Sometimes you may be asked to help clean, organize, or conduct inventories.
Consider it part of your job.
10. You are responsible directly to your course coordinator. Any problems should be
taken up directly with that person. In addition, you may speak with the Center
Director about any aspects of your duties.
REMEMBER THAT YOU HAVE ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT JOBS IN OUR
CENTER, THE CENTER DEPENDS ON YOU.
PROCEDURES TO BE FOLLOWED AFTER OBSERVING CHEATING
(IMPEACHING)
In the event that you observe someone cheating, immediately tell the student(s)
what you observed. If the infraction is visual, you may seek confirmation by another TA;
however, such confirmation is sometimes not possible and is not necessary. You might
take the student’s answer sheet and ask him or her to leave the room. Tell the student to
34
see you immediately after the quiz. You may allow the student to continue the quiz after
your warning, depending on your assessment of the magnitude of the infraction. If the
student refuses to give you the answer sheet when asked to do so, or refuses to leave the
laboratory, call Campus Security.
Remember- TAs are not Instructors of Record. Only the Lecture Instructor can
take official action against the student. IF you tell a student that you are going to give him
or her a “zero” for the quiz, you have exceeded your authority. Immediately after talking
to the student (you may tell him or her what your recommendation will be), counsel with
the student’s Lecture Instructor. If action is to be taken, the Instructor must do so in
writing to the student’s dean. Copies should be sent to the Center Director, the student,
and the Dean of Students. The letter should detail the infraction and state what action the
Instructor has taken. If the student finished the quiz but failed, the Instructor might
choose to write a letter detailing the infraction but let the grade stand. If action is taken
against the student, the student must have access to appeal.
If the student becomes vocally or physically abusive the behavior should be noted
in the Instructor’s letter.
If you have evidence that one or more students have plagiarized work, accumulate
the evidence and ask the laboratory coordinator to review the material. Show the material
to the students’ Instructor(s). After a decision has been reached by the TA and the
Instructor, notify the student(s) immediately and tell them to contact the Instructor(s).
The Instructor should file a letter with the student’s dean, as above.
MAINTAINING YOUR TEACHING APPOINTMENT
TA appointments are made for an academic year starting with the fall term.
However, your performance as a TA and as a graduate student will be reviewed each
semester and a poor performance could lead to the loss of the TA appointment or failure
to receive a TA re-appointment for the next semester. Students who do not have English
as a first language need to pass the ESL test, and all students who serve as TA’s need to
take the TTU TA workshop.
Teaching performance will be evaluated from information provided by the faculty
member serving as laboratory coordinator for the course in which you are teaching and
from student evaluations. You must also remain in “good academic standing” by
maintaining a GPA of 3.0 or higher each semester. Failure to meet this GPA requirement
will result in being placed on academic probation by the Graduate School and could
cause you to lose a TA appointment. The evaluation for TA re-appointments will include
an assessment of your progress toward completion of your degree.
You are also reminded that you must conduct your class and interact with students or
other TAs in a professional manner. Texas Tech University takes offenses, such as sexual
harassment very seriously and you must be cognizant of how your actions or words might
be interpreted by others.
If there is a course in which you would like to teach, contact the faculty member
coordinating the labs. The course coordinator will request specific TAs for his/her course.
35
RESIGNING A TEACHING ASSISTANTSHIP
As soon as the student holding a teaching assistantship knows that he/she will
resign, he/she should notify the Graduate Coordinator or the Departmental Chairperson in
writing. This will allow the Department’s interest to be best served by seeking a
replacement as quickly as possible.
If the student wishes to resign a TA to accept a research assistantship several factors will
be considered.
1) Before 1 June the student can resign the TA without concern 2) After 1 June he/she
will not be released from the TA contract unless a suitable student can be found to accept
the teaching responsibilities.
3) The same applies to a student wishing to resign a TA in the fall to accept a RA in the
Spring. He/she will be allowed to resign the TA without concern prior to 15 October.
TUTORING WHILE HOLDING A TEACHING ASSISTANTSHIP
Although you are encouraged to assist your students in every possible way to help
them learn the course material, you are NOT allowed to tutor students for monetary gain.
36
RESOURCES Center for Biotechnology and Genomics
o Experimental Sciences: Room 101
o (806) 742-6927
o http://www.depts.ttu.edu/biotechnologyandgenomics/
TTU Graduate School o Administration Building: Room 328
o (806) 742-2787
o http://www.depts.ttu.edu/gradschool/
TTU Graduate School Writing Center o Administration Building Room 43 (Inside Graduate Center)
o http://www.depts.ttu.edu/gradschool/gswc.php
Student Business Services
o West Hall: Room 301
o (806)742-3272
o http://www.depts.ttu.edu/studentbusinessservices/
Office of International Affairs o 601 Indiana Avenue
o (806) 742-3667
o http://www.iaff.ttu.edu/main/index.asp
University Career Center o Wiggins Complex
o (806) 742-2210
o http://www.depts.ttu.edu/careercenter/
MyTech (Online Class Registration) through Raiderlink o http://www.ttu.edu
Graduate Catalog o http://www.depts.ttu.edu/officialpublications/catalog/index.php
Environmental Health and Safety o https://www.depts.ttu.edu/ehs/
TTU Library o https://www.depts.ttu.edu/library/
37
Advising Worksheet
Name:___________________________________________ R#__________________
Degree: Master’s in Biotechnology (30 hours)_
FIRST YEAR
FALL
Core Requirements- 15 hrs.
BTEC 5338: Methods in Biotechnology -3 hrs.
BTEC 6301: Intro to Biotechnology – 3 hrs.
*BTEC 5322: Bioinformatics Method – 3 hrs.
BTEC 5100: Scientific Communication – 1 hr.
BTEC 6101: Biotechnology Seminar – 1 hr.
CHEM 5104: Responsible Conduct Res. - 1hr.
Elective 1 – 3 hrs.
Elective 2 –3 hrs. (in place of BTEC 5322)
SPRING
Capstone and Electives – 15 hrs.
BTEC 5335: Capstone in Biotech – 3 hrs.
Elective – 12 hrs.
*All coursework must be approved by the Graduate Advisor.
*BTEC 5335: Capstone in Biotechnology – Must Register in Graduating Semester
*Take BTEC 5322 in the spring and 9 hours of elective if you prefer to take an extra
elective in the fall in place of BTEC 5322.
Must enroll 18 hours in BTEC courses
38
Advising Worksheet
Name:___________________________________________ R#__________________
Degree: Master’s in Biotechnology (38 hours)_ Concentration:______________
FIRST YEAR (20 credit hours Course-works)
FALL
Core Requirements- 11 hrs.
BTEC 5338: Methods in Biotechnology -3 hrs.
BTEC 6301: Intro to Biotechnology – 3 hrs.
BTEC 5322: Bioinformatics Method – 3 hrs.
BTEC 5100: Scientific Communication – 1 hr.
CHEM 5104: Responsible Conduct Res.- 1hr.
SPRING
Electives - 9 hrs.
_________________________
_____________________
_________________________
__________________________
SECOND YEAR (18 hrs. Research)
FALL
BTEC 7000: Research in Biotech – 9 hrs.
SPRING
BTEC 7000: Research in Biotech – 3 hrs.
BTEC 6001: Biotech Internship – 6hrs.
OR
BTEC 6000: Master’s Thesis – 6 hrs.
*All coursework must be approved by the Graduate Advisor.
*At least 20 hours of course work from the 1st year are required to be eligible for research
concentrations.